A Neighborhood with Deep Roots
Tucked away among the rolling hills east of downtown, Squirrel Hill North is a neighborhood where Pittsburgh’s vibrant history feels alive at every corner. From grand homes along Northumberland Street to the leafy pathways of Frick Park, this charming enclave is a living testament to a city that honors its past while evolving gracefully into the future.
How Squirrel Hill Got Its Name
The story behind Squirrel Hill’s name is as quaint as the neighborhood itself. Local lore suggests early settlers in the 18th century were struck by the abundance of gray squirrels bounding through the wooded hills that characterized the region. The name first appeared in official records around 1760, capturing the imagination of generations who would come to cherish a place where woodlands met community—a spirit still evident today along tree-lined streets like Beechwood Boulevard and Hobart Street.
From Farmland to Urban Haven
The transformation of Squirrel Hill North began in earnest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Once part of a rural outpost with sprawling farms owned by families like the Negleys and the Wilkins, the area saw a dramatic change with the arrival of Pittsburgh’s streetcar system. As lines extended up Forbes and Murray Avenues, Squirrel Hill North became accessible to those seeking an escape from the industrial bustle of downtown without sacrificing the amenities of the city.
By the 1920s and 1930s, elegant brick homes, stately Tudor manors, and handsome apartment buildings began to line the neighborhood’s streets. It became a magnet for professionals and families drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to culture, academia, and parks.
Key Historical Milestones
- Schenley Park: Opened in 1889, this vast urban green space defines the western edge of Squirrel Hill North. With its scenic trails, the landmark Schenley Park Bridge, and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens nearby, the park has offered generations of residents a leafy retreat just minutes from their doorsteps.
- Frick Park: To the east, the pristine woodlands of Frick Park (created in 1927 after industrialist Henry Clay Frick’s bequest of 150 acres) provide another oasis that defines life in Squirrel Hill North. The park’s trails, iconic Blue Slide Playground, and nature center are beloved by both children and adults.
- Homewood Cemetery: Established in 1878 just north of Squirrel Hill, this sprawling cemetery is a sanctuary of history, where notable Pittsburghers such as Henry J. Heinz and jazz legend Erroll Garner found their final resting place.
Notable Landmarks and Institutions
Wandering through Squirrel Hill North, you’ll encounter a remarkable array of architectural gems and institutions that tell the neighborhood’s unique story:
- Rodef Shalom Congregation (4905 Fifth Avenue): Established in 1856 and relocated to its current classic, domed synagogue in 1907, Rodef Shalom is the oldest Jewish congregation in Western Pennsylvania. Its Biblical Botanical Garden is a hidden gem open each summer.
- Wightman School Community Building (5604 Solway Street): Opened as a public school in 1897, this grand structure now hosts community organizations, dance studios, and local events.
- The Mansion District: Grand homes on streets like Northumberland, Fair Oaks, and Belmar were built by wealthy steel magnates and business leaders between the 1910s and 1930s, showcasing Tudor, Colonial Revival, and Arts and Crafts styles. These homes are as striking today as when they first rose amid the trees.
- Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Squirrel Hill Branch: Located just south of Squirrel Hill North, this beloved library—originally funded by Andrew Carnegie—has served generations of learners and readers since 1910.
A Tapestry of Communities
Squirrel Hill North has long been a crossroads of cultures, religions, and families. Its role as the heart of Pittsburgh’s Jewish community began in the early 20th century, when Jewish families sought refuge from downtown’s crowded neighborhoods and established synagogues, schools, and businesses in the area.
Over time, Squirrel Hill North embraced newcomers from every corner of the world, creating a blend of traditions, cuisines, and holiday celebrations found in few other Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Strolling down Wilkins Avenue or strolling into one of the bakeries or shops around Murray and Forbes, it’s easy to feel the warmth and welcome that define the neighborhood.
Evolution Through the Decades
The legacy of Squirrel Hill North lies in its ability to evolve. The 1960s and 1970s brought new waves of families and students as nearby universities like Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh grew. The neighborhood’s mix of long-term residents and fresh faces helped preserve its vitality.
Today, Squirrel Hill North seamlessly blends history with modern living. Historic preservation efforts ensure the architectural character of the area remains intact, even as new townhomes and apartment buildings appear. Parks are better maintained than ever, bike lanes line the avenues, and local organizations work tirelessly to foster community spirit—from block parties to charity races in Schenley Park.
What Makes Squirrel Hill North Special
Ask any longtime resident what sets Squirrel Hill North apart, and you’ll hear about:
- The “front porch” culture, where neighbors chat as they stroll the leafy sidewalks.
- The blend of architectural styles, from Arts and Crafts bungalows to grand Tudor mansions.
- The neighborhood’s enduring commitment to the arts, education, and interfaith dialogue.
- The peace of green spaces like Mellon Park and Colfax Elementary School’s playground, which echo with the laughter of children.
- A sense of belonging—rooted in more than a century of shared stories, traditions, and dreams.
Looking Ahead
While the past is always close at hand in Squirrel Hill North, the neighborhood’s story is far from complete. As new generations put down roots, contribute new chapters, and cherish its parks, streets, and institutions, Squirrel Hill North continues to embody the very best of Pittsburgh—resilient, welcoming, and always evolving.
Whether you’re a newcomer or someone whose family tree has shaded these hills for generations, Squirrel Hill North invites you to become a part of its living history.